It does look weird, but I seem to recall there was some kind of different construction or tread design between the black sidewall and white letter tires, especially within the same size. The blackwall C rated may be an OEM replacement specification tire. Would likely need a Toyo rep to confirm the exact differences.
I think this is about as good of an answer as you will get unless there is a Toyo engineer around. Im sure it has something to do with manufacturing differences for the two tires as the D rated tire is nearly a quarter of an inch bigger in diameter when inflated even though they are marked as the same size. Which begs the question why not use a 34 10.5 17. Same weight but over half an inch more diameter, better offroadability, fits in the spare well better, and doesnt come close to rubbing anywhere. I cant see a single performance reason to put a toyo 285 tire on a 17 inch rim.
Actually, this tire doesnt fit fully in the spare well and has fitment issues backing and turning especially if you are past the +45 offset. The 34 10.5 can be used clear to +20mm offsets without any rubbing at all.
Planning on keeping my 265/70/18 spare as well! I’m planning on getting the Nomad 504’s (+35 offset) in white and most likely going to pair it with Toyo AT3’s in 275/70/r17 without a lift! Wanting to stay in the realm of as close to the OEM size as possible.
Now that you mention the width, I’m actually considering AT3’s in 255/75/r17 (at 48 pounds) or 255/80/r17 (at 50 pounds). Both have a width of 10.0.
I saw you were deciding between the ATIII EV and the Nitto Terra Grapplers. I’m in the same conundrum, what made you choose the Toyos?
I honestly can't remember, so it was probably price. Or the flip of a coin.
